The 27-year-old midfielder has one year left on his Arsenal contract and is currently trying to thrash out a lucrative new deal with Highbury's hierarchy.

However, if negotiations break down, Arsenal may be forced to cash in to avoid him leaving on a free transfer at the end of next season.

Manchester United and Real Madrid would be favourites for the Frenchman's signature should he leave, and Madrid's new coach Quieroz reckons there's a chance of one of the clubs capturing the Frenchman this summer.

"He is a very good player, excellent. If Vieira leaves Arsenal, Real Madrid will not be the only team that wants him.

"There will be Manchester and Liverpool..Do I think he’s going to leave? It’s 50-50. It is something that at this moment in time, is in the fridge."

Arsenal's vice-chairman, David Dein, however, insists the club's leading stars such as Vieira and Henry will not be sold at any price.

"All the speculation is very annoying," Dein told the club's official website.

"We will not be weakening our squad to strengthen the opposition - that would not be too intelligent

"Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira will not be leaving Arsenal Football Club - the players have said it and the club has said it."